System and Method for Targeted Automotive Vehicle Parking

ABSTRACT

A system and method are provided for location-targeting the provision of media distributed by a mobile platform. The method provides a mobile platform with an attached media projection subsystem, and an identifier associated with the media projection subsystem. The media projection subsystem is selectively enabled, the geographic location of the mobile platform is determined, and the identifier and the enablement of the media projection system are verified. Verification information, including the mobile platform (media projection subsystem) location, identifier, and enablement of the media projection subsystem is communicated to a server and stored in a non-transitory memory. A targeting application may direct the system to a target location in cooperation with analyzing the verification information, weighted for factors such as proximate vehicular traffic, line of sight, proximate pedestrian traffic, proximity to cultural events, proximity to cultural facilities, the time of day, and the length of time the media is being projected.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications, if any, for which a foreign or domesticpriority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet of thepresent application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR1.57.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to position monitoring networks and,more particularly, to a system and method for location-targeting thedelivery of media from a mobile platform.

2. Description of the Related Art

Humans spend more and more time in their automobiles driving to work andto other lifestyle activities, as well as travel. In the United States,the average American spends approximately 10 minutes per day in anautomobile. Approximately 90% of Americans own cars and over 75% driveto work every day. A record 107 million Americans have automobile debtand make monthly payments. The outdoor advertising industry aimed attargeting these drivers is estimated at $8 billion each year.

There exist many systems that attempt to take advantage of human usermobility to implement advertising and media distribution. US2013/0304565, entitled “System and Method for Advertising on MobilePlatforms”, and US 2016/0267539, entitled “Individual and Fleet-BasedVehicle-Based Wireless Marketing Device” disclose such systems. U.S.Pat. No. 8,010,134, entitled “Architecture for Mobile Advertising withLocation”, discloses a system that uploads particular media content to amobile device based upon the mobile device location. U.S. Pat. No.7,463,898, entitled “System and Method for the Distribution ofAdvertising and Associated Coupons via Mobile Media Platforms”,describes a similar concept. U.S. Pat. No. 8,712,630, entitled “MobileAdvertising and Compensation-Verification System” describes a systemwhere a display with an embedded power source and Global Position System(GPS) receiver is adhesively attached to a vehicle. The owner of thevehicle is rewarded for the number of miles the vehicle is driven. Theinstallation of the display is verified by recording a cell phonepicture. The system includes a GPS device with a transmitter, showncommunicating with a GPS satellite, that allegedly prevents tampering orremoval of the display after its installation. However, as is well knownin the art, GPS satellites only transmit data to users—they do notreceive or otherwise uplinked data from users. Similarly, although anEEPROM device is described for storing location information and distancedata, no means is presented for downloading this data to the centralentity computerized database that is tasked with distributing rewards.

It would be advantageous if the time and location of a portable mediapresentation could be tracked and recorded.

It would be advantageous if the media presentation could be selectivelyenabled.

It would be advantageous if the above-mentioned media presentation couldbe accurately and continuously verified. It would be advantageous if thesystem included a targeting mechanism to suggest that the media bepresented in desired target locations.

It would also be advantageous if the enablement of media presentation ofthe location of the media presentation could be verified remotely,without requiring the employment of a human.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system and method are disclosed herein that encompass remotelydeployable and activated automated signage. In one aspect, the signageis a vehicle cover that displays advertising and is integrated, forexample, with a mobile phone software application to provide a means ofdirecting the signage to prime locations. Alternatively, the vehicledriver may manually deploy the vehicle cover and the device functions inthe same manner. In one aspect, the mobile sign advertising system isenabled as a vehicle roof mounted all-weather device that upon remoteinstruction from an vehicle operator deploys and retracts a cover madeof cloth or other pliable material over and across a vehicle, eithermanually or using an electric motor (battery, vehicle sourced, or solarpowered). Thus, the system creates a mobile advertising platform thatseeks to expand and capture market share within the outdoor advertisingmarket segment by directing the selective deployment of media topreferred target locations, as well as (optionally) providing theautomobile protection from the elements.

The cover may display an advertising message, coupon, or logo. Thevehicle cover may be deployed automatically or manually by the vehicleoperator by removing the cover from the housing. The roof mounted devicemay contain side panels displaying logos that may remain in place on theexterior of the vehicle roof during transport and may be affixed to theexterior of the vehicle roof by magnets or suction cups or pads, or theroof mounted device may be removed and stored in the vehicle followingretraction of the cover by the internal motor or manually by the vehicleoperator. The roof mounted device may also contain a halo of LED lightslocated under a fin that directs emitting light downward onto the coverto illuminate the cover during darkness or low light periods. The LEDlights may be powered by a battery contained in the device housing or anelectrical system connected to the vehicle's power source. Once in astationary position, a receiver located in the roof mounted device canbe activated remotely by an electrical signaling device (such asBluetooth, cellular, or WiFi) to deploy and retract the cover through aproprietary software application on the operator's mobile phone.Alternatively, the system and communications are initiated by deployingthe cover. The mobile phone software application may transmit thefollowing information to the owner of the proprietary software: (i) aunique identifier for the device in use (for example, radio-frequencyidentification) and the operator of the vehicle assigned or inpossession of the device, (ii) the time, date, duration and location(using mobile-satellite triangulation systems or radio-frequencyidentification systems) that the device or the person manually deployedor retracted the presentation media, and (iii) a photographic image ofthe vehicle with the cover deployed. The proprietary software mayutilize graphic information system (GIS) mapping technology tocompensate the operator of the vehicle for parking the vehicle inspecified locations as identified in the mobile phone softwareapplication.

Accordingly, a method is provided for monitoring the provision of mediadistributed by a mobile platform. The method provides a mobile platformwith an attached media projection subsystem, and an identifier (e.g.,serial number) associated with the media projection subsystem or themobile platform. Examples of a mobile platform include a self-poweredvehicle, a towed trailer or sign, a shopping cart, a drone, or even abackpack. The media projection subsystem is selectively enabled, and maybe a car cover, retractable screen, or a broadcasted sound to name a fewexamples. In one aspect of the method, media uploads are received from aserver and projected by the media projection subsystem.

The method determines the geographic location of the mobile platform,and verifies the identifier and the enablement of the media projectionsystem. Verification information, including the mobile platform (ormedia projection subsystem) location, identifier, and enablement of themedia projection subsystem, is communicated to a server and stored in anon-transitory memory.

Typically, the identifier is associated with an entity such as a person,business, or corporation. Then, a targeting application, stored in theserver memory, enables a sequence of processor executable instructionsfor directing the entity to a target location in cooperation withanalyzing the verification information. For example, the target locationmay be selected from a plurality of value weighted target locations.More explicitly, the target location may be weighted in response togeographic location factors such as proximate vehicular traffic, line ofsight, proximate pedestrian traffic, proximity to cultural events,proximity to cultural facilities, and combinations thereof. Otherwise,the target location may be weighted in response to factors such as thetype of media being projected, the time of day, the day of the week, thedate, the length of time the media is being projected, and combinationsthereof.

In one aspect, the identifier and media projection subsystem includeshort-range wireless devices transmitting, respectively, anidentification code and an enablement signal. A personal communicationsdevice, enabled for example as a smartphone, includes a wireless deviceto receive the identification code and enablement signal, and a globalpositioning system (GPS) receiver for determining the mobile platformlocation. A verifier software application, stored in a non-transitorymemory, is enabled as a sequence of processor executable instructionsfor verifying the identification code and the enablement of the mediaprojection subsystem, and providing verification information. Theverifier may be embedded with the personal communications device or theserver. Alternatively, a GPS receiver, the identifier, and acommunication subsystem are embedded with the media projectionsubsystem.

In another aspect, the identifier is an identification code physicallymarking the media projection subsystem. Then, a personal communicationsdevice with a camera photographs the identification code and thedeployment of the media projection subsystem. The step of verifying theidentifier and the enablement of the media projection system includesrecognizing the photographs of the identification code and mediaprojection subsystem deployment, respectively, as the identifier and theenablement of the media projection subsystem.

In another aspect, the method provides a camera embedded with mediaprojection subsystem, and images recorded by the camera are communicatedto the server for storage in memory. The value of the target locationprovided to the entity may then be modified based upon the informationprovided in the images. Alternatively, the camera images may be used toverify the enablement of the media projection subsystem.

Additional details of the above-described method, a mobile mediadistribution system, a system for monitoring the occupation of ageographic location by a mobile platform, and a system for monitoringthe provision of media distributed by a mobile platform are providedbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic block diagrams of a mobile mediadistribution system.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic block diagrams depicting the system ofFIGS. 1A and 1B as a stand-alone mobile media distribution system.

FIGS. 3A through 3C are a schematic block diagrams depicting the systemof FIGS. 1A and 1B partially enabled with a personal communicationsdevice.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram depicting the system of FIGS. 1A and1B partially enabled using photographic images.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an exemplary target location weighting map.

FIGS. 6A through 6C are perspective views depicting the media projectionsubsystem associated with an exemplary vehicle mobile platform.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for monitoringthe occupation of a geographic location by a mobile platform.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for monitoringthe provision of media distributed by a mobile platform.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for monitoring the provisionof media distributed by a mobile platform.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic block diagrams of a mobile mediadistribution system. The system 100 comprises a selectively enabledmedia projection subsystem 102 having an interface 104 to project mediaand an interface on line 106 to supply an enablement signal in responseto the media projection subsystem being enabled. Typically, the mediaprojection subsystem 102 displays a media image. Alternatively, or inaddition, the media projection subsystem 102 may broadcast audioinformation or sounds.

An identifier 108 is associated with the media projection system 102,and has an interface on line 110 to supply an identification code. Alocation device 112, here depicted as a global positioning system (GPS)receiver, supplies the geographic location of the media projectionsubsystem 102 via interface 114. The system 100 is not limited to anyparticular type of location means. For example, a LORAN receiver wouldbe suitable to enable the system. Otherwise a LoJack® type system mightbe adapted for the purpose of location. However, at the time of thiswriting, inexpensive commercial available GPS receivers are highlyaccurate and easy to procure. For the sake of simplicity, the locationdevice is typically described as a GPS receiver in the explanationsbelow. A verifier 116 has interfaces connected on line 106 to receivethe enablement signal, on line 110 to receive the identification code,and on line 114 to receive the geographic location. The verifier 116 hasan interface on line 118 to supply verification information responsiveto the enablement signal, the identification code, and the enablementsignal. As explained in more detail below, depending on the particularapplication, the above-mentioned interface signals are communicated ordownloaded via hardlines, wirelessly, or optically. A communicationssubsystem 120 has an interface on line 118 to receive verificationinformation and an interface on line 122 to transmit the verificationinformation to a server 124.

As used herein, a “server” may be defined as a central server, as shownin FIG. 1A, to which a plurality of media projection systems may report.Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2B, the server may be a distributednetwork of servers, such as might be used in a peer-to-peer system. Ingeneral, communications may be stored and transmitted periodically, inwhich the communications between the communications subsystem 120 andthe server 124 may be made via a hardline (e.g., Ethernet), ortransmitted continuously using WiFi, cellular telephone, Bluetoothprotocols to name a few examples. The communications are not limited toany particular type of protocol. In some aspects, the communicationsinclude both wireless and hardline protocols, such as a communicationthat begins wirelessly to a WiFi access point that subsequently isconverted to an Ethernet protocol.

The non-transitory memories described herein may be any type or form ofvolatile or non-volatile storage device or medium capable of storingdata and/or other computer-readable instructions. Examples of memoriesinclude, without limitation, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read OnlyMemory (ROM), flash memory, or any other suitable memory device.Although not required, in certain embodiments, the systems describedherein may include both a volatile memory unit and a non-volatilestorage device. The memory may be implemented as shared memory and/ordistributed memory in a network device.

In one aspect, the identifier 108 is associated with a first entity. Thefirst entity may be referred to as a legal entity in some aspects,examples of which include a human being, a business, or a corporation. Atargeting software application 126 is stored in a non-transitory memory128 of the server 124, enabling a sequence of processor executableinstructions for directing or suggesting to the first entity (or mediaprojection subsystem) a target location in cooperation with analyzingthe verification information. In one aspect, the target location ispredetermined. As such, portions of the system described herein that areenabled with software applications may be understood to be a type ofcomputer system. As is well known in the art, a processor is used toimplement the steps in a software application. The memory of thecomputer system typically includes some type of operating system (OS).To reduce the clutter in the drawings, and since the interaction with anOS, processor, and software application is so well understood,processors and OS software are not shown in this figure.

FIG. 1B depicts the interaction between components of the targetingapplication 126 and the verifier 116. In one aspect, as shown in FIG.2A, the targeting application 126 and verifier 116 may be collocated inthe same memory, or be combined as a single unified application.Otherwise, the various components depicted in FIG. 1B may benon-centrally distributed. In one aspect, the targeting application mayoptionally determine a reward for the first entity, as shown in phantom,in response to the media projection subsystem occupying the targetlocation. The most obvious type of reward is money. However, the firstentity may alternatively be rewarded with bitcoin, cryptocurrency,coupons, or services. In one aspect, the target location is selectedfrom a plurality of weighted (in value of importance) target locations,in response to the specific geographic location of where the mediaprojection subsystem is located. For example, the target location may beweighted in response to geographic location factors such as proximatevehicular traffic, line of sight from a particular vantage point,proximate pedestrian traffic, proximity to cultural events, proximity tocultural facilities, and combinations thereof. A cultural event isgenerally understood to be an activity involving human beings. Likewise,a cultural facility is a facility used by human beings, such as amuseum, office building, or grocery store parking lot. As a moreexplicit example, a target location may have a first value if the mediaprojection subsystem 102 is enabled within X feet of a particularlocation, and second value, greater than the first value, if the mediaprojection subsystem is enabled within X/2 feet of the same location.Other factors reflected in the weighting of the target locations mayinclude the type of media being projected, the time of day, the day ofthe week, the date, the length of time the media is being projected, andcombinations thereof. There may be locations, such as parks, hospitals,or freeways where signage or parking is legally restricted, and in oneaspect these locations are given a target value of zero. In one aspect,the system may even prevent the enablement of the media projectionsubsystem in legally restricted areas. The system 100 described hereinis not limited to any particular factors weighting a target location.The system is interactive in the sense that the first entity may selecta deployment location after determining the value of a location. In thissense, the targeting application does not so much direct the mediapresentation subsystem to a particular predetermined location, assuggest multiple possible locations.

In another aspect shown in FIG. 1A, the system 100 further comprises anoptional camera 130, shown in phantom, embedded with the mediaprojection subsystem 102, and having an output on line 132 to supplyimages of the geographic location proximate to the media projectionsubsystem. The communications subsystem 120 receives the images from thecamera and transmits them to the server. The camera images of theenvironment surrounding the media projection subsystem 102 may be storedas data 132 in memory for analysis. In one aspect, the camera images maybe analyzed using an artificial intelligence (AI) application, inconjunction with stored map images, the combination of which operates asthe location device 112. In this way, the system may “learn” todeployment media in the optimum locations.

The camera images may also be used to modify the value of the targetlocation. For example, the recorded traffic in a location may be greaterthan anticipated, and the target value adjusted accordingly. That is,images recording higher pedestrian or vehicular traffic may have greatervalue. The data may be used to help determine the efficacy of the mediaor location. In one alternative aspect shown in phantom, the datarecorded by the camera may be imprinted with the identifier 108, storedin a local memory 134 of the media projection subsystem, andsubsequently downloaded through the communications subsystem 120 orthrough a memory peripheral, such as a thumb drive, which can beaccessed by a third party, server provider, or first entity.Alternatively or in addition, the camera images my act to verify thatthe media projection subsystem 102 has been enabled. In one aspect,simply recording a change in images, and thus proximate traffic, can beused as a means for proving media projection subsystem enablement.

In one aspect, the communications subsystem 120 receives media uploadsfrom the server 124 on line 122, and the communications subsystemprovides the media uploads to the media projection subsystem 102 on line136.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic block diagrams depicting the system ofFIGS. 1A and 1B as a stand-alone mobile media distribution system. Anon-transitory memory 200 is embedded with the media projectionsubsystem 102. Likewise, the identifier 108, communications subsystem120, and GPS receiver 112 are embedded with the media projectionsubsystem 102. As shown, the verifier 116 is software applicationenabled as a sequence of processor executable instructions, and storedin the memory 200, for processing the verification information.Alternatively, as shown in phantom, the verifier 116 may be embedded inthe server memory 128. Although not explicitly depicted, communicationsbetween the media projection subsystem and the server may be relayedthrough the use personal communication devices or WiFi access points. Inthis example, the identifier 108 is a code loaded into memory 200, butalternatively it can be a mechanical device, such as a DIP switch oftenassociated with garage door openers. The media projection subsystemenablement signal on line 106 may be triggered, for example, by thedeployment of a screen displaying a media message. In one aspect, themedia projection subsystem can be remotely enabled, using signalsrelayed by a personal communications device or embedded communicationssubsystem, from the server or from an entity (user) at a differentlocation. For example, the media projection subsystem may be remotelyenabled to project only in the daylight hours, and then remotelydisabled at night.

In another aspect, a GPS antenna 212 (shown in phantom) may be embeddedin the media projection mechanism, for example, if the mechanism is ascreen or cover. Since location data is only collected when the screenis deployed, the collection of location data simultaneously proves theenablement of the media projection subsystem 102. Otherwise, a switchmay be thrown that powers the GPS receiver when the media projectionmechanism is deployed. Again, since location data is only collected whenthe media projection mechanism is deployed, the collection of locationdata simultaneously acts as proof of enablement. As yet anotheralternative, a powered GPS is shielded (e.g., by a metal cover) untilthe media projection mechanism is activated.

The verifier application 116 is enabled with the aid of processor 202and OS 204. Also note that interfaces 106, 110, 114, and 118 may sharethe same bus line. Likewise, server 124 includes OS 206 and processor208, with transceiver 210. For ease of understanding the above-describedfunctions have been described as individual components. However, itshould be understood that in practice, multiple functions may beperformed in a single device or subsystem.

FIG. 2B depicts more of a peer-to-peer type system where the targetingapplication 126 is embedded in the memory of the media projectionsubsystem memory 200. In this case, the targeting application 126 mayuse the communications subsystem 120 to communicate with at least oneserver in the distributed network of servers 124-0 through 124-n. In oneaspect, the distributed network of servers may be other mediaprojections systems. As another alternative, each server in thedistributed network may include targeting and verifier applications, anddata storage block-chain mechanisms. If the system is enabled to rewardusers (entities) based upon time, location, and duration of mediadeployment, the rewards may also be managed using a block-chainmechanism.

FIGS. 3A through 3C are a schematic block diagrams depicting the systemof FIGS. 1A and 1B partially enabled with a personal communicationsdevice. As used herein, a personal communications device is a devicecapable of wirelessly transceiving communications. A conventionalsmartphone is an example of such a device. Otherwise, the personalcommunications device may be a smart watch, tablet computer, laptopcomputer, personal computer, or the equivalent. The personalcommunications device may be capable of cellular, WiFi, and Bluetoothcommunications. In addition, the personal communications device may be acustomized smartphone or proprietary device capable of nanoscale,near-field communication (NFC), body (BAN), personal (PAN), near-me(NAN), or wireless local area network (WLAN) to name a few examples. Inadditional, the personal communications device may also be capable ofhardline (e.g., Ethernet) communications, and capable of downloadingmemory-stored information into peripheral memory devices.

In this aspect, the identifier 108 includes a short-range wirelessdevice 300, embedded with the media projection subsystem 102,transmitting the identification code. Likewise, the media projectionsubsystem 102 includes a short-range wireless device 302 fortransmitting the enablement signal. In one aspect not shown, theidentifier and media projection subsystem may use the same transmitter.Further, the short-range wireless device(s) may be transceivers if thesystem employs a handshaking mechanism. The communications subsystem isa personal communications device 304 that includes a wireless device 306to receive the identification code and enablement signal, the GPSreceiver 112, an OS 310, and processor 312. The personal communicationsdevice 304 has a non-transitory memory 308. The verifier 116 is enabledas a sequence of processor executable instructions, stored in thememory, for processing the verification information. Alternatively, asshown in phantom, the verifier may be embedded with the server 124.

Advantageously, the short range communications require that the personalcommunications device 304 be in close proximity to the media projectionsubsystem 102. As a result, the GPS location measurements accuratelydescribe the location of the media projection subsystem 102. In someaspects, the personal communications device wireless unit 306 is alsoonly capable of short range communications, to further ensure accurateGPS location measurement. Although the communications 122 to the server124 are depicted as wireless, they may alternatively be enabled withhardline protocols or by downloading personal communications devicememory on a peripheral memory card.

FIG. 3B depicts some overall media performance algorithm components.FIG. 3C depicts some aspects of an exemplary media projection mobileapplication.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram depicting the system of FIGS. 1A and1B partially enabled using photographic images. In this aspect, theidentifier 108 is an identification code, as shown XXX001, physicallymarking the media projection subsystem 102. Again, the communicationssubsystem is a personal communications device 304. The personalcommunication device 304 comprises a camera 400 to photograph theidentification code and the deployment of the media projectionsubsystem. The GPS receiver 122 may be embedded with the personalcommunications device, as shown. Alternatively but not shown, the GPSreceiver may be embedded with the media projection subsystem, andcommunicate GPS location data to the personal communications device viaa wireless link. The verifier 116 is shown embedded in the personalcommunications device memory 308, but alternatively as shown in phantom,it may be embedded in the memory of the server. Wherever the verifier116 is embedded, it recognizes the photographs of the identificationcode and media projection subsystem deployment, respectively, as theidentification code and enablement signal. As another alternative, an AImapping analysis application may determine location from thephotographs.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an exemplary target location weighting map.Region 1 on the map may be associated with a major highway, anddeployment of the media projection subsystem in this region rates arelatively high value. Region 2 is located in a city downtown area andmay rate an even higher value. Regions 3 and 4 may be suburban areas,with the values associated with Region 3 being higher because of agreater population density. Region 5 may be rural and have the smallestvalue. In one aspect, the target location weighting map is stored andmaintained in the server. Components of the media projection system(e.g., a verifier application stored in a personal communicationsdevice) may access, and perhaps upload, the target location weightingmap so as to determine the optimum position for locating the system.Alternatively, a separate but associated mobile map application may beused.

FIGS. 6A through 6C are perspective views depicting the media projectionsubsystem associated with an exemplary vehicle mobile platform. In FIGS.6A and 6B the media projection subsystem is mounted on the roof of avehicle. The identifier, GPS receiver, and verifier are not explicitlydepicted. These components may be internal to the chassis housing themedia projection subsystem 102. As described above, a GPS receiver andverifier may be embedded in other parts of the system. The mediaprojection subsystem 102 is mounted to a roof rack 600. In this example,the media projection subsystem 102 may use a screen 602 to project imagedata. As shown, the screen 602 may be retractable. The screen 602 may beprinted with a fixed advertising message, warning, or alert.Alternatively, the screen may be fixed or stationary. In one aspect, notshown, the media projection subsystem 102 further comprises a lightprojecting device for illuminating the screen with the media image, orfor simply illuminating a fixed printed message at night. In anotheraspect, the screen includes a field of light emitting diodes (LEDs) orliquid crystal display (LCD) for projecting (i.e., creating) a visualimage. In general, any type of imaging system, such as a conventionalprojector, may be used to create or transfer an illuminated message ontoa screen or cover. As noted above, in one aspect the light projectionsystem is capable of receiving updated media from the server, or capableof projecting different types of media packages stored in memory. In oneaspect, the media presented may include a quick response (QR) code,matrix barcode, or watermark that can be downloaded by a viewer, andused as a coupon in a subsequent purchase, as a metric of efficacy ofthe media presentation. Optionally, in combination with or as analternative to the projection of image media, the system may include aspeaker 604 to broadcast an audible sound as the media. In one aspect,the system includes a battery 606 which may be used to power retractablescreens or provide power for illuminating the screen(s).

The device housing may be constructed of a weather and ultraviolet (UV)resistant molded hard plastic, synthetic material, or metal. The devicehousing may be painted various colors. The leading edge portion of thedevice housing that faces the front of the automobile can be aerodynamicto reduce wind drag and noise. Located at or near the bottom of thedevice housing are openings that allow the fabric car cover to bedeployed and retracted. The device housing may be an automated roofmounted case. Alternatively, the top portion of the device may beremoved manually by the vehicle driver and deployed. As an alternativeto the rack, the housing may be attached by vibration resistant bolts,suction cups, screws, clips, or magnetic devices that attach to the roofof the vehicle and that are capable of keeping the device affixed to theroof during transit or inclement weather. The perimeter of the devicehousing may include a row of continuous or intermittent LED lightsdirectly under a small rib or fin of the housing that directs theemanating LED light in a downward fashion over and across the fabriccover to illuminate it during periods of darkness or low light. On thevertical portions of the device housing facing the sides, and/or frontand rear of the automobile, are panels that can be painted orimpregnated with logos or lettering. In some aspects the housingprojects a visual image (e.g., a hologram) without the requirement of afabric or backdrop.

FIG. 6C depicts the media projection subsystem enabled as a car cover.In this aspect, the media presentation is more likely to be a fixedstationary message or picture. If operated in cooperation with apersonal communications device as in FIG. 4, the car cover need notinclude a power source, as the personal communications device canphotograph an identifier printed on the cover while simultaneouslyverifying that the cover is deployed (as shown). Alternatively,enablement of the system can be measured with an embedded camera orphotodetector, with the use of short-range transmitters as described inFIG. 3A, or with the use of communications subsystem.

The enablement of the media projection subsystem using a screen can bemeasured in a number of different ways. In the case of a screen, amechanical or electrical switch, embedded camera, photodetectordetecting ambient light, laser reflecting off an extended reflectivesurface of an extended screen may detect the deployment of the screen.In the case of a more active presentation system, the enablement of anLED field or light projection unit can act as proof of enablement.Otherwise, the detection of a barcode, QR code, radio frequencyidentification (RFID), or laser read detector can support this function.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for monitoringthe occupation of a geographic location by a mobile platform. The system700 comprises a mobile platform 702 capable of occupying a geographiclocation and a location device 112 (e.g., GPS receiver) having aninterface on line 114 to supply mobile platform geographic locationinformation. For example, the mobile platform may be a powered vehicle,a towed trailer or cart, or a structure that occupies space and can becarried and manipulated by hand. An identifier 108 is associated withthe mobile platform 702 and has an interface on line 110 to supply anidentification code. A verifier 116 has an interface for receiving thegeographic location information and the identifier, and an interface online 118 to supply verification information responsive to the geographiclocation and identifier. A communications subsystem 120 has an interfaceto receive verification information and an interface on line 122 totransmit the verification information. A server 124, enabled as one ofthe above-described variations, has a communications interface to acceptthe verification information and a non-transitory memory 128 to storethe verification information.

The identifier 108 is associated with a first entity, and the system mayfurther comprise a targeting application 126. The targeting application126 is stored in the server memory 128, and is enabled as a sequence ofinstructions for directing or suggesting a target location to the firstentity in response to analyzing the verification information. Similar tothe targeting application described above in FIGS. 1-5, the targetingapplication 126 calculates a target location weight responsive to ageographic location occupied by the mobile platform. That is, a targetlocation weight may be response to geographic location factors such asproximate vehicular traffic, line of sight, proximate pedestriantraffic, proximity to cultural events, proximity to cultural facilities,and combinations thereof. Other weighting factors may include the timeof day, the day of the week, the date, the length of time the media isbeing projected, and combinations thereof. This system may be useful, asdescribed above, for ensuring that certain areas are blocked andsubsequently made available for cultural events and priority vehicleparking. As another example, the system may be used to determine that arental car or scooter has been returned to a proper specified location.Although the target locations and weights may be predetermined, in someaspects the weighting for non-predetermined areas may be calculatedconcurrently with the deployment of the media projection subsystem. Thatis, the target locations and the target location weights need notnecessarily be predetermined.

In one aspect, system 700 optionally comprises a selectively enabledmedia projection subsystem 102 mounted to the mobile platform 702. Then,the verifier 116 additionally accepts enablement signals on line 106from the media projection subsystem 102 if media is deployed, andsupplies verification information on line 118 responsive to determiningthe enablement of the media projection subsystem.

Similar to the system described above in FIG. 3, and therefore mentionedonly briefly, the identifier and the media projection subsystem mayemploy short-range wireless transmitting devices, and the communicationsdevice is a personal communications device. Then, the GPS receiver canbe embedded with the mobile platform, media projection subsystem ifused, or the personal communications device.

Similar to the system described above in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the GPSreceiver, identifier, and communication subsystems may be embedded withthe mobile platform, or the media projection subsystem if used. Similarto the system described above in FIG. 4, the identifier may be anidentification code physically marking the mobile platform or mediaprojection subsystem if used. The communications subsystem may be apersonal communications device including a camera to photograph theidentification code and the deployment of the media projection subsystemif present, and the verifier recognizes the photographs of theidentification code and media projection subsystem deployment (ifpresent), respectively, as the identifier and the enablement of themedia projection subsystem.

In one aspect, the system further comprises a camera 706 having anoutput on line 708 to supply images of the geographic location proximateto the mobile platform. The communications subsystem 120 receives theimages from the camera and transmits them to the server 124 for storagein memory. The images may be evaluated to modify the target locationweight, to verify the occupation of a particular location, or determinelocation.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for monitoringthe provision of media distributed by a mobile platform. The system 800comprises a mobile platform 802. Like the system described in FIG. 7,the mobile platform 802 is any portable or moveable vehicle or structurecapable of being parked and temporarily occupying a location. Inaddition, mobile platform 802 includes moving vehicles, trailers orcarts under active tow, shopping carts, backpacks, and drones to name afew examples. A selectively enabled media projection subsystem 102 ismounted to the mobile platform 802 with an interface to supply anenablement signal when the media projection subsystem is projectingmedia. An identifier 108 is associated with a first entity and the mediaprojection subsystem 102, and has an interface on line 110 to supply anidentification code. A location device 112 (e.g., a GPS receiver) has aninterface on line 114 to supply media projection subsystem or mobileplatform geographic location information, which should be the same. Averifier 116 has an interface for receiving the geographic location, theidentifier, and the enablement of the media projection system, and aninterface to supply verification information responsive to thegeographic location, identifier, and enablement of the media projectionsubsystem. A communications subsystem 120 has an interface to receiveverification information and an interface on line 122 to transmit theverification information. A server 124, enabled as one of theabove-described variations, comprises a communications interface toaccept the verification information and a non-transitory memory 128 tostore the verification information. In one aspect, the server 124further comprises a targeting application 126, stored the memory 128,enabled as a sequence of processor executable instructions for directingor suggesting target locations to the first entity in cooperation withanalyzing the verification information.

In one aspect, the targeting application 126 supplies or calculates aplurality of weighted target location responsive to a correspondingplurality of geographic locations through which the mobile platformtraverses. In other words, the value of the target locations may changeconstantly as the mobile platform continually moves through differentlocations. Other details of the system of FIG. 8 are essentiallyidentical to the features and variations presented in the descriptionsof FIGS. 1-4 above, and are not repeated here in the interest ofbrevity.

The systems described above can be adapted for use in a model where anadvertiser pays for service based upon performance. For example, anadvertising client may contract with a system provider stipulating atarget market and deployment hours/rate. The system provider determinesgeo-fenced locations that meet or exceed the advertiser's target marketbased on location, demographics, traffic, population density, and othervariables. In one variation, system enablers (e.g., entities or drivers)use a mobile application in conjunction with the media projectionsubsystem that is deployed in geo-fenced region for a period of time.Platform deployment time, location, quality code, and user informationare recorded by the server. A system provider algorithm determinesplatform performance based on length of deployment, contracted rate,parking cost reimbursement, and location quality code.

As noted above, in one aspect a personal communications device mobileapplication communicates with the media projection system using anear-field, low power (e.g., Bluetooth) protocol. This mobileapplication may require user authentication and handshaking with mediaprojection system as a means of identification and verification. Themobile application may provide the user with geo-fenced targetdeployment assignments, user account info, module status, and modulecontrols. Driver deployment is logged when the driver pairs and connectsthe application with the media projection subsystem, and in one aspect,the driver deploys the media advertisement by pulling down a vinylroller. Location and deployment time metrics are recorded using mobileGPS/cell-tower telemetric capabilities and time features. The user dataand metrics may be transmitted using cellular wireless electroniccommunication to the server.

As at least partially seen in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the media projectionsystem may include a roof mounted rack, battery compartment, pulldownvinyl advertisement, microcontrollers, and microchip wireless antenna.The projection system is mounted to a vehicle and the driver may then bedirected to preferred deployment locations using the mobile mapapplication. That is, a mobile map application may display geo-fencedlocations corresponding to areas where the driver is eligible to makemoney by deploying advertising media. The driver syncs their mobiledevice application to the media projection system to control and confirmthe device location, deployment, and length of deployment.

The systems described above support a targeted mobile sign system, wherethe mobile sign is selectively deployed. As explained above, the signmay be a car cover with an advertising logo or message. In cooperationwith the deployment of the sign, an organization or user associated withthe sign is directed to preferred locations. For example, the deploymentof the sign along a busy urban thoroughfare is likely to have a greatervalue than deployment on a suburban side-street. Other factors that maybe used to calculate target value may include the time of day and thelength of deployment. Thus, some key features to the system aredetermining that the sign has actually been deployed, and once deployed,the location of the sign. In some aspects, the sign is a type of visualdisplay, but other aspects may include just an auditory presentation, acombination visual and auditory presentation, or a presentation that isable to interact with a proximate viewer.

In one aspect, the sign communicates a deployment message and supportingsystems receive the deployment message and determine the deploymentlocation. This information can be relayed in real-time to a serverentity. Alternatively, the information can stored in memory of thesupporting system and transferred to the server at periodic intervals orupon the attainment of predetermined metrics such as the number ofdeployments. In this aspect, the sign can be enabled with a relativelysimple transmitting device or memory.

The supporting system may be a smartphone with a proprietary applicationfor interrogating or receiving interrogations from the sign. Forexample, the system may assume that smartphone is both enabled with aGPS application, and in the same approximate location as the deployedsign, if the sign uses a short range communication system such asBluetooth, NFC, or WiFi. Likewise, the supporting system may be a localor mobile WiFi hotspot, in which case the deployment signal is relayedto the server, and it may be possible for the server to determine thelocation of the WiFi hotspot, for example, by communicating with devicesadjacent to the hotspot that are enabled with GPS receivers.

In another aspect, the sign includes mechanisms for determining bothdeployment and location. As above, this information can be communicatedto a supporting system in real-time using a wireless communicationssystem. Again this information can be communicated to a smartphone witha proprietary application via Bluetooth, WiFi, or even cellularcommunications. Alternatively, the communications can be related via aWiFi hotspot, or sent more directly to the server via cellularcommunications. Alternatively, the deployment and location informationcan be stored and transferred occasionally or periodically using awireless communications system, using a hard-wired link, or memoryperipheral. In one aspect, the media projection subsystem can beequipped with inertial measurement unit (IMU), such as an accelerometeror gyroscope, to detect changes in location.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for monitoring the provisionof media distributed by a mobile platform. Although the method isdepicted as a sequence of numbered steps for clarity, the numbering doesnot necessarily dictate the order of the steps. It should be understoodthat some of these steps may be skipped, performed in parallel, orperformed without the requirement of maintaining a strict order ofsequence. The method steps are supported by the above systemdescriptions and, generally, the method follows the numeric order of thedepicted steps. The method starts at Step 900.

Step 902 provides a mobile platform with an attached media projectionsubsystem, and an identifier associated the media projection subsystem.Exemplary media projection subsystem may comprise a car cover, fixedscreen, or retractable screen for displaying a media image. The mediaprojection subsystem may also employ a light projection device, a fieldof LEDs, and an audio speaker. Step 904 selectively enables the mediaprojection subsystem. Step 906 determines the geographic location of themobile platform. Step 908 verifies the identifier and the enablement ofthe media projection system. Step 910 communicates, to a server,verification information including the mobile platform location,identifier, and enablement of the media projection subsystem. As notedabove, there is no necessity that these steps be performed in theparticular order listed above. In Step 912 the server accepts theverification information, and in Step 914 the server stores theverification information in a non-transitory memory.

In one aspect, the identifier of Step 902 is associated with a firstentity, and Step 916 directs or suggests a target location to the firstentity in cooperation with analyzing the verification information usinga targeting software application, stored in the server memory, andenabled as a sequence of processor executable instructions. A targetlocation weight may be responsive to the type of geographic locationoccupied by the mobile platform. Some geographic location factors areproximate vehicular traffic, line of sight, proximate pedestriantraffic, proximity to cultural events, proximity to cultural facilities,and combinations thereof. A target location weight may also beresponsive to factors such as the type of media being projected, thetime of day, the day of the week, the date, the length of time the mediais being projected, and combinations thereof. As shown with the arrowleading back to Step 906, the selection of location may be influenced bythe value of the location.

In one aspect, Step 902 provides an identifier comprising a short-rangewireless device transmitting an identification code, and with the mediaprojection subsystem comprising a short-range wireless device fortransmitting an enablement signal. In addition, Step 902 may furtherprovide a personal communications device comprising a short-rangewireless device to receive the identification code and enablementsignal, and a GPS receiver for determining the mobile platform location.Then, verifying the identifier and the enablement of the mediaprojection system in Step 908 includes using a verifier softwareapplication, stored in a non-transitory memory, enabled as a sequence ofprocessor executable instructions for verifying the identification codeand the enablement of the media projection subsystem. The verifiersoftware application may be embedded with either the personalcommunications device or the server.

Alternatively, Step 902 embeds a GPS receiver, the identifier, and acommunication subsystem with the media projection subsystem. In thiscase, the verifier software application is stored in a non-transitorymemory of the media projection subsystem. The verification informationcommunicated in Step 910 is communicated using the embeddedcommunications subsystem. This method permits constant verificationupdates if so desired.

In another aspect, Step 902 provides the identifier as an identificationcode physically marking the media projection subsystem, and alsoprovides a personal communications device including a camera tophotograph the identification code and the deployment of the mediaprojection subsystem. Then, verifying the identifier and the enablementof the media projection system in Step 908 includes recognizing thephotographs of the identification code and media projection subsystemdeployment, respectively, as the identifier and the enablement of themedia projection subsystem.

In one aspect, Step 903 a receives media uploads from the server, andenabling the media projection subsystem in Step 904 includes the mediaprojection subsystem projecting the media uploads. Optionally, Step 903b uplinks a target location weighting map, which may influence thedeployment location of Step 904. In another aspect, Step 902 provides acamera embedded with the media projection subsystem, and Step 918communicates images recorded by the camera to the server for storage inmemory. In another variation, the camera may be used in verifying systemenablement in Step 908.

System and methods have been provided for monitoring the deployment ofmedia and the occupation of geographic locations. Examples of particularmessage structures, schematic block linkages, and hardware units havebeen presented to illustrate the invention. However, the invention isnot limited to merely these examples. Other variations and embodimentsof the invention will occur to those skilled in the art.

We claim: 1-30. (canceled)
 31. An automotive vehicle positioning systemcomprising: a parking subsystem having an interface to supply anenablement signal with an identification code, in response to theautomotive vehicle being parked in a selected stationary position; alocation subsystem to supply a geographic location of the automotivevehicle; and, a communications subsystem having an interface to receiveverification information including the enablement signal, identificationcode, and geographic location, and an interface to transmit theverification information to a server.
 32. The system of claim 31 whereinthe identification code is associated with a first entity; and, thesystem further comprising: a targeting software application stored in anon-transitory memory, enabling a sequence of processor executableinstructions for directing the first entity to a plurality of potentialtarget parking locations.
 33. The system of claim 32 wherein thetargeting software application permits the first entity to select atarget parking location from the plurality of potential target parkinglocations.
 34. The system of claim 32 wherein the targeting softwareapplication directs the first entity to target parking locations havingweighted values.
 35. The system of claim 32 wherein the first entityreceives a reward corresponding to the value of the target parkinglocation.
 36. The system of claim 31 further comprising: a selectivelyenabled media projection subsystem having an interface to project media.37. The system of claim 36 wherein the identification code is associatedwith a first entity; and, wherein the first entity receives a reward inresponse to the media projection subsystem being enabled, and receivesno reward in response to the media projection subsystem not beingenabled.
 38. The system of claim 36 wherein the media projectionsubsystem comprises a roller-retractable flexible display screenconfigured for mounting on a roof of the automotive vehicle.
 39. Thesystem of claim 36 wherein the media projection subsystem projects mediais selected from the group consisting of a displayed image, broadcastsound, or a combination thereof.
 40. The system of claim 36 wherein thecommunications subsystem receives media uploads from the server; and,wherein the communications subsystem provides the media uploads to themedia projection subsystem.
 41. The system of claim 31 wherein theparking subsystem ceases to supply the enablement signal in response tothe automotive vehicle moving from the selected stationary position. 42.The system of claim 31 further comprising: a camera having an output tosupply images of the geographic location proximate to the automotivevehicle; and, wherein the communications subsystem receives the imagesfrom the camera and transmits them to the server.
 43. The system ofclaim 31 further comprising: the server comprising: a first interface toreceive verification information from the automotive vehiclecommunication subsystem; and, a second interface to receive first clientgoals selected from the group consisting of target market, deploymenthours, and deployment rate, and to determine geo-fenced parkinglocations meeting the first client's goals.
 44. The system of claim 43wherein the server determines the geo-fenced locations meeting the firstclient goals in response to factors selected from the group consistingof location, demographics, traffic, population density, length ofdeployment, automotive vehicle contracting rate, parking fees, andcombinations thereof.
 45. The system of claim 43 further comprising: aselectively enabled media projection subsystem having an interface toproject media; wherein the server is associated with a second entity;wherein the first client provides a reward to the second entity when themedia projection subsystem is enabled, and provides no reward to thesecond entity when the media projection subsystem is not enabled. 46.The system of claim 31 further comprising: a WiFi (IEEE 802.11) hotspot.47. A method for monitoring the parking location of an automotivevehicle, the method comprising: providing an automotive vehicle parkingsystem having an identifier associated with a first entity; a parkingsystem receiving a plurality of potential parking locations; subsequentto parking the automotive vehicle, the parking system creating anenablement signal; the parking system verifying the parking location ofthe automotive vehicle; and, the parking system communicating, to aserver, verification information including the identifier, theenablement signal, and the parking location.
 48. The method of claim 47wherein each the plurality of potential parking locations has acorresponding weighted value.
 49. The method of claim 47 wherein thefirst entity receives a reward associated with the weighted value of theparking location.
 50. The method of claim 47 wherein providing theparking system includes providing a selectively deployable roof-mountedretractable display; and, wherein the parking system creating theenablement signal includes the parking system creating the enablementsignal after deploying the display.
 51. A mobile platform positioningnetwork comprising: an automotive vehicle positioning system comprising:a parking subsystem having an interface to supply an enablement signalwith an identifier, in response to a mobile platform being parked in aselected stationary position; a location subsystem to supply ageographic location of the automotive vehicle positioning system; acommunications subsystem having an interface to receive verificationinformation including the enablement signal, the identifier, and thegeographic location, and an interface to transmit the verificationinformation; and, a server having an interface to supply a plurality ofpotential weighted value parking locations to the parking subsystem, andto receive the verification information.
 52. The system of claim 51further comprising: a media projection subsystem selectively enabledwhen the mobile platform is parked in the selected stationary position.